- AARP was initially founded in 1947 as the National Retired Teachers Association by Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus. The NRTA later expanded to become the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) in 1958. AARP functions as a nonpartisan advocacy group for its members who, contrary to popular belief, do not have to be retired to join. In addition to lobbying various state and federal governments, AARP also offers benefits and discounts to its members, such as homeowner's insurance.
- AARP's partner in offering homeowner's insurance is the Hartford Insurance Services Group. Simply called "The Hartford," this insurance company is one of the largest in the United States as well as the oldest, having been in continual operation for nearly 200 years.
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Homeowner's insurance is used to protect the policyholder from damage to the home as well as the articles inside the home, including furniture, electronics and appliances. Though home insurance covers many accidents or incidents, blanket policies offer basic coverage for the policyholder and may require additional coverage, also known as "riders," to increase the effectiveness of the insurance.
Homeowner's insurance is based on an appraisal of the house's value, its location and other factors. Typically, basic homeowner's insurance covers to replace or repair items contained within the house as well as on the property. Homeowner's insurance also may cover the policyholder's lost jewelry, food or other items depending upon the terms and conditions of the policy agreed upon by the policyholder and The Hartford. - Basic homeowner's policies do not cover certain accidents or incidents that may result in damage to the property or its contents. Typically, such incidents as floods and earthquakes are termed "acts of God" and must be insured against through additional riders added on to the basic policy. Damages cause by war, though not an "act of God," are similarly not covered by homeowner's insurance.
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Additional riders to consider are liability riders that cover the legal expenses and any judgments against the policyholder in the event that the policyholder is named as a defendant in legal suits. Also, medical expenses for any person injured on the property of a policyholder can be opted for as well.
Additional coverage offered through The Hartford to AARP members includes loss of use and additional structures insurance. These additional riders allow members to customize their coverage and control costs.
Finally, policyholders who acquire their coverage through AARP are eligible for lifelong coverage without the possibility of cancellation as long as policy premiums are paid in accordance with the terms set forth by The Hartford.
